Sage Francis, 'The Best of Times' -- Video Premiere

The video for Sage Francis' 'The Best of Times' loosely follows the narrative of the song, in which Francis bemoans his youth, mockingly calling it the "best of times" as he relives his embarrassments, let-downs and growing pains.

The single is from Francis' newest album, 'Li(f)e' which saw Francis working with a live band and outside songwriters to score the music. Some of the contributors are familiar names, like Mark Linkous (Sparklehorse), Jason Lytle (ex-Grandaddy), Chris Walla (Death Cab for Cutie) and Tim Fite. The songwriting credit for 'The Best of Times,' however goes to experimental composer Yann Tiersen.

As is expected from Francis, 'Li(f)e' has recurrent themes throughout -- biting social commentary, really -- including an unapologetic view of organized religion. And while that motif does surface on 'The Best of Times,' its sharper focus is on Francis' youth, as he imparts his hard-won wisdom to the next generation.

The lesson? If there is any, it's that -- as Francis raps -- "when you think you've got it all figured out and then everything collapses, trust me kid, it's not the end of the world." True. Check out the video below.